Work

Quantifying the microstructure evolution and phase assemblage of solid waste as construction materials by EDS image analysis: A case study of carbonated basic oxygen furnace slag aggregates

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: The diversities of raw materials and manufacturing techniques lead to large fluctuations in the upcycling potential of solid waste as construction materials. A quantitative energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) image analysis methodology was developed to measure the microstructure evolution and phase assemblage of solid waste. Based on the proposed EDS image enhancement algorithm, the component complexity and structural heterogeneity of basic oxygen furnace slag (BOFS) can be fully revealed by the EDS images. Thereafter, the proportions of major phases (i.e., pores, reaction products, and unreacted components) and the specific composition information of involved phases can be determined. The spatial distributions of reaction products and unreacted components could be studied by the lineal-path distribution function and the phase assemblage of reaction products could be studied by the elemental ratios. The results showed that the effects of subsequent hydration on the microstructural and mineralogical alterations of carbonation products were more prominent than the consumption of unreacted components. The continuous dissolution of the Ca and Si ions upon the hydration significantly promoted the transformation of carbonation products and microstructure densification of BOFS aggregates, which was the main contributor to the development of mechanical performance.

Source: Construction and Building Materials

DOI: 10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2023.131892

Authors: Lihui Li, Jian Yang

Institutions: Shanghai Jiao Tong University, State Key Laboratory of Ocean Engineering, University of Birmingham

Language: English

Topic: Recycling and utilization of industrial and municipal waste in materials production

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,780